Dhaka: Religious Adviser Dr. AFM Khalid Hossain announced today that pilgrims participating in Hajj Packages 1 and 2 will receive a refund exceeding Taka three crore upon the completion of Hajj in 2026.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dr. Hossain revealed several cost-saving measures that have been implemented to facilitate this refund. He noted that reductions in hotel rent in Makkah and Medina by 1,000 Saudi riyals and a decrease in transportation costs by 100 Saudi riyals per pilgrim have been achieved. These efforts are part of a broader initiative to make Hajj more affordable.
During a press briefing held at the ministry’s conference room to mark his one and a half year tenure, Dr. Hossain emphasized the ministry’s commitment to reducing costs. He highlighted the successful negotiation with the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism, which resulted in a Taka 27,000 reduction in airfare for the 2025 Hajj and a Taka 13,000 decrease for the current year, totaling a Taka 40,000 reduction over two years.
Additionally, Dr. Hossain mentioned that the service charge per pilgrim under Hajj Package-3 has been lowered by 600 Saudi riyals through effective communication with the service provider company. He also pointed out improvements in accommodation proximity to Haram Sharif, which will ease travel inconveniences and allow pilgrims to perform prayers more conveniently.
Dr. Hossain reflected on his tenure, noting his focus on transparency, accountability, and honesty. He has aimed to invigorate the ministry and its related departments and organizations. Highlighting the Islamic Foundation’s initiatives, he reported the appointment of 163 individuals to vacant positions and mentioned that the appointment process for 197 others is pending due to litigation, with hopes for resolution soon.
Furthermore, the ministry has promoted staff in various grades and is processing appointments for other vacant positions. The briefing was attended by notable figures, including Religious Secretary Md Kamal Uddin and additional secretaries Md Ayatul Islam and Md Fazlur Rahman.